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[responsivevoice_button]Both Black Panther movies were deeply rooted in culture. While the first film explored African culture, the second one brought ancient Aztec and Mayan cultures to the present day. But, wouldn’t it be quite amazing if we got to dive deeper into the history of Black Panther, just like we did for Namor? Black Panther revealed how Earth got Vibranium in an opening montage. And it also teased how the Shaman Bashenga became the first Black Panther. Whether or not Marvel chooses to tell his story remains to be seen. But we’ve got some new pieces of art that could be used to shine some light on Bashenga’s backstory.
Who Was King Bashenga?
Back when all tribes of Wakanda were divided, it was this warrior shaman from the lore who united all the tribes. After having a vision of the goddess Bast, he was led to a powerful herb that had grown out of a Vibranium-rich soil. Upon the instruction of Bast, he consumed the herb and became a superhuman. He was the first King of Wakanda, and he also became the first Black Panther. After his demise, his descendants of the Golden tribe continued to take on the Black Panther mantle.

Bashenga: The First Black Panther
Artist Shaun Harrison came up with a bunch of concept art pieces that explore the idea of a new Disney/Marvel release Bashenga: The First Black Panther. Here, take a look:
Concepted a New Disney/Marvel release Bashenga: The First Black Panther. And it’s taking off so let me post here… drop below to see more images pic.twitter.com/m613vqw8uo
— Shaun Harrison (@shaun_harrison) November 26, 2022
Harrison also revealed a few characters who could be part of the 5 tribes that were prevalent in the Kingdom back then.
“Bashenga” follows Wakanda as 5 tribes of the kingdom fare over control of newly found metal Vibranium. Stars #JohnBoyega as #Bashenga, #BrianTyreeHenry reprising Phastos of the Eternals, #Doechii as Bask, #BurnaBoy as W’Tene leader of the River Tribe and guest apper. by Tems. pic.twitter.com/KkNMAaNhEe
— Shaun Harrison (@shaun_harrison) November 26, 2022
Then, there’s the Black Panther suit:
Music Produced by P.Priime & Ludwig Göransson, songs written by WizKid & Burna Boy. Choreographed by Fatima Robinson. Directed by Misha Green of Lovecraft Country fame. pic.twitter.com/agPdrxXikY
— Shaun Harrison (@shaun_harrison) November 26, 2022
It’s needless to say that these art pieces are beautiful and seem almost real.